Centre for Entrepreneurship Development - CED, BRAC University

𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲-𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 🌱

On 3 June 2026, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), BRAC University, under the EmPower: Women for Climate-Resilient Societies (Phase II) initiative funded by UNEP and UN Women, hosted a workshop at BRAC Centre Inn on strengthening awareness of financial mechanisms for renewable energy, clean energy, and climate-resilient initiatives.

The workshop brought together representatives from financial institutions, policymakers, renewable energy practitioners, development partners, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem stakeholders to explore pathways for inclusive and sustainable growth.

The programme featured an overview of the EmPower II initiative by Ms. Sabrina Nourin, highlighting efforts to advance women’s economic empowerment through renewable energy adoption, climate-resilient entrepreneurship, access to finance, and ecosystem development.

A key session was led by Mr. Chowdhury Liakat Ali, Director, Sustainable Finance Department, Bangladesh Bank, who shared insights on sustainable finance policies, green financing instruments, and opportunities to expand access to finance for women and marginalized entrepreneurs.

This initiative continues to support inclusive financial systems, sustainable livelihoods, and Bangladesh’s climate adaptation and low-carbon development goals.

𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗜

On 4 June 2026, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), BRAC University, under the 𝗘𝗺𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿: 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲-𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 (𝗣𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗜𝗜) initiative funded by UN Environment Programme and UN Women Bangladesh, organised a workshop at SME Foundation to strengthen understanding of financial mechanisms supporting renewable and clean energy and climate-resilient initiatives. The workshop brought together representatives from financial institutions, renewable energy practitioners, policymakers, development partners, entrepreneurs, civil society organizations, and ecosystem stakeholders.

The programme commenced with an overview of the EmPower II initiative delivered by Ms. Sabrina Nourin, Senior Program Manager, Partnership & Intervention, Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), BRAC University. She highlighted the project's objectives, key interventions, and expected outcomes, emphasising its focus on strengthening women's economic empowerment through renewable energy adoption, climate-resilient entrepreneurship, access to finance, technical capacity building, and ecosystem development. The presentation also outlined the project's contribution to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women and marginalized groups while supporting Bangladesh's climate adaptation and low-carbon development agenda.

The programme also featured a dedicated short session on the support services and opportunities available through the SME Foundation for marginal and women entrepreneurs. Mr. Md. Nazim Hasan Sattar, Deputy Managing Director, SME Foundation, shared valuable insights on the Foundation’s initiatives, capacity-building programmes, financing facilitation mechanisms, and business development support available to aspiring and existing entrepreneurs. His session highlighted the importance of strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems and expanding access to resources that can help women and marginalized entrepreneurs establish, sustain, and grow climate-resilient enterprises.

The highlight of the programme was an awareness session on Bangladesh Bank-The Central Bank of Bangladesh’s sustainable finance policies, green financing instruments, and opportunities for promoting renewable energy and climate-resilient enterprises through formal financial channels. The session was led by Mr. Chowdhury Liakat Ali, Director, Sustainable Finance Department, Bangladesh Bank, who provided valuable insights into the evolving sustainable finance landscape in Bangladesh. His presentation underscored the critical role of financial institutions in advancing sustainable development, fostering climate-resilient entrepreneurship, and enhancing financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs and marginalized communities, particularly those living in climate-vulnerable areas.

The perspective of UN Women further highlighted the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in climate-vulnerable areas, including limited access to finance, technology, markets, and institutional support. Ms. Kazi Rabeya Ami, Programme Analyst, Climate & Gender, UN Women, emphasized the importance of creating an enabling ecosystem that addresses these barriers and promotes inclusive economic opportunities for women. She underscored the role of strategic partnerships and coordinated stakeholder engagement in bridging the institutional gaps between climate-vulnerable women entrepreneurs and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem, thereby strengthening their resilience and capacity to participate in sustainable and climate-resilient economic activities.

The event forms part of EmPower II’s broader efforts to promote women's economic empowerment through renewable energy adoption, climate-resilient entrepreneurship, and inclusive financial systems. Implemented by CED, BRAC University, in partnership with UN Women and UNEP, the initiative aims to create an enabling ecosystem that supports sustainable livelihoods while contributing to Bangladesh’s climate adaptation and low-carbon development goals.

Today, June 18, 2026, BRAC University’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED) successfully hosted the National Dissemination Workshop on “Advancing Women’s Climate-Resilient Entrepreneurship: Evidence, Inclusive Finance, and Climate Justice for Inclusive Green Growth” under the EmPower: Women for Climate-Resilient Societies (Phase II) initiative, funded by UN Women and UNEP.

The workshop brought together policymakers, development partners, financial institutions, academia, civil society organizations and ecosystem stakeholders to discuss evidence-based pathways for strengthening women’s participation in climate-resilient and renewable energy-based entrepreneurship.

We were honoured by the presence of the Honourable State Minister Mr Shaikh Faridul Islam, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as Chief Guest. V

aluable insights were also shared by representatives Ms Navanita Sinha, Deputy Country Representative, UN Women Bangladesh; Ms. Alexandra Mutungi, Gender and Climate Change Expert, UNEP; and Mr. A.Q.M. Golam Mawla, Deputy Managing Director, PKSF, highlighting the importance of inclusive finance, climate justice, and women’s economic empowerment in building resilient communities.

The event featured the presentation of two key studies conducted under EmPower II, focusing on:

- Renewable energy-based entrepreneurship and resilient livelihoods for women; and
- Addressing barriers to women’s access to finance and a gender-responsive climate justice framework for action.

Through engaging discussions and a dynamic panel session, participants explored opportunities, challenges, and collaborative solutions for advancing gender-responsive climate finance and inclusive green growth in Bangladesh.

📌 Advancing Youth Entrepreneurship in Bangladesh: Dhaka Division Consultation Workshop for the National Action Plan (NAP)

On behalf of Centre for Entrepreneurship Development - CED, BRAC University, we are delighted to facilitate the first consultation workshop in Dhaka Division for the National Action Plan (NAP) under the Youth Entrepreneurship Development Policy 2025.

The Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), BRAC University is serving as the technical consultant in collaboration with UNDP Bangladesh, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Plan International Bangladesh to translate the policy vision for youth entrepreneurship into a coordinated and actionable national plan.

The inaugural session was officially inaugurated by Mr. Aminul Haque, Hon’ble State Minister, Ministry of Youth and Sports, bringing together key stakeholders from government, development partners, the private sector, civil society, and youth representatives to shape priorities and define implementation pathways for advancing youth entrepreneurship in Bangladesh.

CED–BRAC University is honored to contribute to the formulation of this National Action Plan and support efforts to strengthen Bangladesh’s youth entrepreneurship ecosystem.



Photo Courtesy: Plan International Bangladesh

🌱 Calling all Entrepreneurs! 🌱

Applications for Orange Corners Bangladesh Cohort 8 are now open — and we want to meet you!

The Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), BRAC University, is inviting you for an in-person Info Session to learn how your business can access free training, mentorship, and funding up to €50,000 — completely equity-free.

📅 Date: 10/06/26 (Wednesday)

⏰ Time: 12:30 pm to 1:50 pm

📍 Venue: 08H-23C, BRAC University, Kha 224 Pragati Sarani, Merul Badda, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.

*Refreshments will be provided

Cohort 8 is open to all sectors, with priority given to:

✅ Agri-Business

✅ Port & Maritime

✅ Water

✅ Circular Economy (RMG)

Who should attend?

Founders, co-founders, and team members of startups & SMEs

Entrepreneurs aged 18–35

Teams with or without a female co-founder (we'll explain how to meet the requirement during incubation!)

Why attend?

Get clarity on the programme, understand what we're looking for, and ask questions directly to the team behind Bangladesh's fastest-growing youth incubation programme.

👉 Register for Info Session: https://forms.gle/34in2VRQtqtPkF8z6

📝 Apply for Cohort 8 Today!

Application Deadline: June 14, 2026

👉 Apply Now: https://yyventures.typeform.com/to/eTand6eD

For more details, visit: https://www.orangecorners.com/country/bangladesh/

Orange Corners Bangladesh is an initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, implemented by YY Ventures and SAJIDA Foundation, supported by DBL Group and Unilever Bangladesh Limited.

*𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆, 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀: 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗠𝗚 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝗵𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮, 𝗛𝗲𝗺𝗮𝘆𝗲𝘁𝗽𝘂𝗿*

Proud to share highlights from our recent awareness training session hosted by Issara CED Bangladesh Helpdesk on May 18, 2026, in Moshurikhola, Hemayetpur.

With 30 enthusiastic participants from 18 garment factories in attendance, our training focused on three vital pillars for a sustainable workplace. We kicked off with occupational health and safety by emphasizing proper protective gear to eliminate workplace injuries. This was followed by health and hydration education, equipping workers with crucial hygiene practices and heatwave care strategies to maintain wellness. We also encouraged greater awareness around workplace harassment by discussing its different forms, promoting respectful behaviours, and inspiring participants to support a culture of accountability and mutual care.

A safe, healthy worker is an empowered worker. By investing in these foundational pillars, we are not just protecting individuals, but we are strengthening the entire supply chain and boosting global compliance standards across Bangladesh.

*𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝗵𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮*

An impactful awareness workshop was successfully conducted on 15 May 2026 in Moshurikhola with the participation of 30 garment workers from 12 factories.. The workshop focused on workers’ rights, workplace safety, sexual harassment prevention, occupational health, and employee well-being, aiming to empower participants with practical knowledge and promote a safer, more respectful, and inclusive work environment.

During the session, participants engaged in discussions on fair wages, Occupational Safety & Health (OSH), fire safety, emergency preparedness, workplace dignity, mental health awareness, and the importance of preventing and reporting sexual harassment in the workplace. The interactive activities and awareness discussions helped workers better understand their rights, responsibilities, and available support systems.

This initiative was jointly supported by Issara Institute and the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), BRAC University, as part of their continued commitment to promoting safe workplaces, informed workers, and stronger communities across Bangladesh.

𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗺𝗮𝘆𝗲𝘁𝗽𝘂𝗿

On April 28, 2026, CED-BRAC University / Mapped in Bangladesh (MiB), in partnership with Issara Institute, conducted a focused training session in Hemayetpur for 30 RMG professionals.

The session went beyond traditional training by creating a supportive space for open conversations. Participants actively discussed key workplace topics, including occupational safety and health, wage transparency, labor rights, and the prevention of harassment.

An important feature of this collaboration is the Issara–CED Bangladesh Helpdesk, managed by CED. This multi-channel support system—available via Facebook, WhatsApp, and more—continues to assist workers both within Bangladesh and in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and across the Middle East.

Strengthening awareness and encouraging open dialogue among workers helps build a more responsible, inclusive, and safer RMG sector.

𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

On April 28, 2026, the Issara–CED Bangladesh Helpdesk successfully conducted a specialised training session for 30 RMG workers in Jamgora focused on Worker Voice and Rights.

Key pillars of the training were to ensure a secure environment for every worker, equipping workers with knowledge, and fostering dialogue to address and prevent workplace harassment.

The Issara–CED Bangladesh Helpdesk continues to serve as a vital resource for workers locally and globally.

A lot of thanks to our participants for their openness. and sincere gratitude to our partner for their support in improving lives in the RMG sector.

Today, CED-BRAC University hosted a policy dialogue on “Renewable Energy Adoption in Bangladesh’s RMG Sector” in Dhaka.

The dialogue presented findings from a survey of 878 RMG factories in Gazipur and Narayanganj. The study explored industrial energy consumption patterns, renewable energy adoption status, emissions profiles, rooftop solar potential, implementation challenges, and policy and financing opportunities.

We were honoured to have Mr. Iqbal Hassan Mahmood, MP, Honourable Minister, Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Government of Bangladesh as the Chief Guest. Mr. Nahian Rahman Rochi, Executive Member, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) joined as the Special Guest. The session was chaired by Professor Arshad Mahmud Chowdhury, Pro Vice-Chancellor, BRACU, while Professor Muhammad Mujibul Haque, Dean, BRAC Business School, BRACU delivered the Opening Remarks.

The dialogue brought together policymakers, industry leaders, factory owners, RE experts, development partners, academicians, journalists, and financial/ investment stakeholders. Representatives from the Ministry, BIDA, SREDA, BGMEA, BKMEA, and development agencies actively participated in the discussion.

A key message strongly emerged from the dialogue: Bangladesh’s RMG sector now requires stronger policy-level support and coordinated institutional action to accelerate renewable energy adoption and industrial decarbonization.

As global sustainability expectations continue to evolve, the sector is increasingly facing new realities linked to carbon accountability, responsible sourcing, EU due diligence requirements, and changing buyer-supplier dynamics. These challenges are becoming particularly important for SMEs within the industry.

During the session, the Honourable Minister highly appreciated MiB’s transparency initiatives and the policy research conducted by CED-BRAC University through the MiB project. He emphasized that the findings are timely and important for understanding the sector’s current challenges and identifying immediate actions required from policymakers and relevant institutions.

The event remained highly interactive throughout. The Honourable Minister directly engaged with industry leaders and participants in open discussion, listened to sector-level concerns, and exchanged views on practical pathways for improving energy efficiency and expanding solar-based renewable energy solutions within Bangladesh’s industrial sector.

The discussion once again demonstrated the importance of evidence-based research, industry-academia collaboration, and multi-stakeholder engagement in shaping Bangladesh’s sustainable industrial future.